The art of nature

Art as a concept is something majestic, something that surrounds us in our everyday life, taking different forms. But only one art surpasses all others and can not be overcome in any way, namely the art of nature. That has given our planet a uniqueness that translates into a variety of natural phenomenon, changing over time. But the most important thing is that this art teaches us and helps us understand the real meaning of the word “beauty” because that exactly is its strongest equivalent!

Talking about the perfection and beauty of nature, today’s destinations are amongst the most remarkable places in Bulgaria. They are located in the Lovech region and are very different from each other.

The first landmark and probably the most popular in this area is the Devetashka Cave. It is located in Devetashko Plateau and is one of the largest caves in Bulgaria. Its parameters are: length 2442 m, area – 20,400 m² and height – 60 m. In addition to the stunning size and beauty of the cave, the Osam River is also nearby, making the place even more picturesque. In the cave itself passes a small creek that flows down the floors, creating charming ponds of different shapes.

One of the most distinctive features of the cave are the seven openings that the locals call ‘Okna’. It is very important to note that the cave is home to many animal species. The site hosts over 80 bird species, as well as amphibians, mammals and bats, believed to be the third most significant underground habitat for bats in Europe.

Useful information:
Devetashka cave is located 171 km away from Sofia and 15 km from Lovech;
Take the direction to Lovech on the highway and than follow the signs leading to the village of Devetaki which is close to the Devetashka Cave (there are well-marked signs);
An entrance fee of 3 BGN for adults and 2 BGN for students, students and pensioners is paid;
There is a convenient car park at the entrance where you can leave your car;
It is a curious fact that this cave in the past was used as a secret military post and oil was stored there;
There is evidence that there has been human presence here since 70,000 BC because of the good living conditions that the place provided;

The next masterpiece, which is another unique nature treasure like the Devetashka Cave, is only 16 km away. Those are some of the most picturesque waterfalls in Bulgaria – the Krushuna Waterfalls. This is a place that offers a combination of an eco-trail, cave and waterfall that make you feel the magic of nature.

The waterfall has a height of 20 meters and originates from the Krushuna cave from which the river Proinovska springs to the beginning of the waterfalls. They are the largest water bizarre cascade in the country.

The rocks are predominantly of biggor, which has limestone origin. This explains why they are so carved from the water and create unusual forms on the surface and underground – magical cave galleries with underground lakes. To a large extent this is also the reason for the specificity of the waterfall, which is divided into sleeves and hence smaller water cascades. Falling, they form admirable karst terraces.

Useful information:
It is located 187 km from Sofia and 31 km from Lovech and is near the town of Letnitsa;
The route is on the highway, direction to Lovech, and from there to Letnitsa, there are well marked signs for the Krushuna waterfalls;
An entrance fee is paid to enter the eco – path where the waterfall is located: 3 BGN for adults and 1 BGN for students and pensioners;
In front of the entrance of the eco – path there is a parking which is paid 2 BGN for the whole day;
I recommend that you avoid going over the weekend as it is crowded with people;
The place has a hotel and a restaurant;

Our last stop was the most mystical and extreme of the day. It’s the Stablitsa Cave. From now on you should know that what I will share with you must remain a secret between us! The access to the cave is forbidden due to falling stones. But … you do not think we turned around when we saw the inscription. It goes down a long, green, muddy, slippery ladder that connects you with stone steps that take you to the centre of the cave itself.

The hall is semicircular with a diameter of 62m. In the cave there can be seen dome stalagmites and santro lakes, as well as numerous moss and fern, sprouting from the rocks. Cave Stalbitsa is unique with the ghostly glow that fills it. The most fascinating fact is that the light penetrates only through a slit and illuminates each of its corners at a different time of the day.

Useful information:
It is located 3 km southwest of the village of Karpachevo, Lovech;
From the centre of the village there are signs pointing to the cave;
Take the narrow road that starts from the village (can be passed by car slowly and carefully);
Access is forbidden due to falling stones! (Go at your own risk);
The cave is not established as a tourist sight, you need to bring with yourself lanterns;
If you want to take nice pictures with the light that penetrates, go in the middle of the day;